ILLUSTRADO GO>ISSUE 22

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Aim Higher #KEEP LEARNING

TOO COOL FOR SCHOOL Unschooling: The Bold Approach to Learning

LESSONS TO GET AHEAD Ditch your old ways, kabayan!

NEW DESTINATIONS TO EXPLORE IG travel photos to unleash your inner wanderlust

EDITOR’S NOTE/ CONTENTS

ISSUE 22

In pursuit of even better

The moment you think you know it all, is the same moment you stop growing. Whatever your stage is in life, there’s always something new to learn. The world is evolving so quickly, especially with all the technological advances these days that to stay still, is to risk becoming a ‘dinosaur’ – well, someday, maybe. There are certainly lots of new skills to learn to improve our lives, and stuff we need to ‘unlearn’ to move forward. Even education has taken on a new meaning with parents looking into alternative schooling.

30 • July • 2017

Just look around you, kababayans, there are lots of opportunities that will help us #aimhigher – starting from this very issue of Illustrado GO, where, as usual, we aspire to inform and inspire.

Taas Noo Filipino!

LALAINE CHU-BENITEZ Editor-in-Chief

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PINOY PROGRESSIVE TOO COOL FOR SCHOOL >3 POWER TO THE PINOY: LESSONS FILIPINOS NEED TO MASTER TO GET AHEAD >6 KEEPING UP WITH THE CON GEN: ARE FILIPINOS KIND TO A FAULT? >10 RACIAL DISCRIMINATION: VICTIMS OR PERPETRATORS >12 ANGAS PINAS: BEAUTY ENTREPRENEUR RIZA SRIPETCHVANDEE > 14

FASHION & ART

URBAN ABERRATION >16 ARTIST SPOTLIGHT: JUN CAMBEL >22

JUST BECAUSE

MY PINOY LIFE IN SYDNEY >24 ILLUSTRADO EATS: SUSHINA >28 ILLUSTRADO STUFF >29 ILLUSTRAGRAMMERS: WANDERLUST >30 THE ANNIE B CHRONICLES >32

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Contributors

LALAINE CHU-BENITEZ Editor-in-Chief and aspiring urban farmer “almost superwoman” Lalaine has been driving Illustrado’s mission to uplift Filipinos in the region for over a decade now. A former corporate dynamo living in Dubai for more than two decades, she has seen enough to appreciate that the best things in life can’t be bought, and that in this day and age, authenticity could be one’s best asset.

CONSUL GENERAL PAUL RAYMUND CORTES

ALWEE VILLAROSA

Editor-in-Chief and aspiring urban farmer “almost superwoman” Lalaine has been driving Illustrado’s mission to uplift Filipinos in the region for over a decade now. A former corporate dynamo living in Dubai for more than two decades, she has seen enough to appreciate that the best things in life can’t be bought, and that in this day and age, authenticity could be one’s best asset.

Savage PR savant.Social Media guy. Bangkok advocate. Hoarder of 3AM songs that are too cool for anyone. Strongest proponent of the #WastedYouth campaign on Instagram. AlweeVillarosa could be your typical, garden variety switched-on millennial internaut, except that he’s infinitely more.

He is also a cunning marketing strategist, a burgeoning writer, and an account manager and leader with an unshakeable sense of integrity and work ethic that belies his young age. See more of his POV at his IG: @alweevillarosa

KIER PASCUAL

PAOLO GABRIEL BENITEZ

EUNICE BARBARA C. NOVIO

A jack-of-all-trades, social media specialist and lifestyle blogger, Kier is an enthusiastic, extremely creative and mentally organized individual who is usually a misunderstood underdog obsessing over indie folk music, video games, anime and basically anything weird and fun.

Follow him and his adventures on Instagram @locloset.

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A visual communications student, junior contributor Paolo is an aspiring artist, seeking to make his mark in the world of cinematography and the performance arts someday.

When not dancing in the living room in the middle of the night, he functions as a perceptive young man, seeking to learn how things are the way they are and providing insight on the various issues that plague his generation.

A correspondent of Inquirer. net US Bureau, Eunice is also an EFL (English as Foreign Language) lecturer in Thailand.

Aside from teaching, she is also a poet who loves cats so much that she is always on the lookout for orphaned kittens. Her latest adoptee was Adolf in addition to Sara, Jayson, Freddy, and Tony.

She believes that the first step to becoming successful is to dream.

FEATURE >

Too Cool For School?

Teaching kids how to be whomever they want to be through Homeschooling

Some parents who choose to homeschool their kids prefer to do “unschooling” which basically consists of letting the child learn from the “school of life.” Unschoolers usually let their kids learn whatever is most interesting for them.

By> Alwee Villarosa

“Homeschooling? Isn’t that for a special child?” There are a lot more versions of the same incredulous reaction when you say the word “homeschool” to parents.

Most of them are afraid that their child will be anti-social or may have a limited learning experience. But apparently, that’s not the case.

Meet Kayo and Nica Cosio. They have 3 daughters whom they have been homeschooling. Their eldest, Summer is 6 and she loves documentaries. Emma is 4 and she is very physically capable. She even taught herself how to ice skate in just one session. The youngest one is 2 year old Jo - a goofy storyteller.

As parents, Kayo and Nica both had mixed educations. They finished high school and where homeschooled, thereafter. Kayo, who is now a Marketing

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@alweevillarosa

Strategist, Art Producer and an owner of a co-working space and Nica, a Graphic Artist and crafter, believe that homeschooling worked for them and gave them the freedom to pursue the careers they have today. “It’s not the case for everyone, but it was empowering for us and so that’s something we’ve always wanted to give to our own kids.” says Kayo.

Some parents who choose to homeschool their kids prefer to do “unschooling” which basically consists of letting the child learn from the “school of life.”

Unschoolers usually let their kids learn whatever is most interesting for them.

For example, if your child loves the arts, you teach them their academic subjects like English, Math and Science based on that particular topic. You can read books about art, watch documentaries about

artists, do Math problems involving art as a subject.

“We both really want the kids to feel like it’s safe to be whoever they want to be.

[Whatever they choose.] Whether it’s music, arts, sales, or whatever.” Kayo explains. Initially, he didn’t want the girls to play Barbie. He had read a thing about how most female CEOs played with Lego instead, so he bought them that. “But what if they want to be in fashion? What if they have a curiosity with which color best served through that toy? Or what if they don’t want to be CEO? That has to be fine with me, as long as there’s dignity in their lives.” He adds.

We asked Kayo and Nica about their homeschooling family lifestyle and here’s what they had to share -

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FEATURE >

Most kids are always excited about their ‘first day of school’; do your kids ask you about whether or not they will be attending school? How do they regard school?

I’m guessing that most kids get excited about their first day of school because of their parents. They’re told that that’s what’s coming up in life, and the parents psyche them up for it.

So what we do is to get them excited about things that are “normal” in our way of life: gallery openings, art projects, and studio days. Studio days are where they spend time in our own studio, Kendo Creative in Cubao Expo or visit other creative professionals in our community.

Through these trips they interact with adults in their work environments: directors, painters, etc. In just the last few weeks, they’ve visited craft soap makers and leather workshops.

They don’t really need an outlook on school. They just need an outlook on learning. For them all structured learning is “school.”

Do you think schools limit a child’s opportunity to learn new things and discover their passion? Does it set clear mental boundaries? Does it diminish a child’s curiosity?

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No, I don’t think that at all. I very much enjoyed my time in International Schools.

I learned a lot there too. So if at some point it makes sense to send the girls to a more conventional schooling system, we will. But just like any other parents, we want to give the kids the best we can.

After examining our options right now, we’ve decided to take this particular path.

Do the kids feel any different when interacting with other kids their age?

They do get along with kids their age in our neighborhood. Just like any other kids, they have friends they hang out with and also have to deal with bullies. They do get along with adults particularly well, too. They spend at least one day a week at our studio/store. The eldest, Summer has deskwork (like math) that she does there, but really these days are to expose them to the business. Summer is learning about how coffee is made at our espresso bar. But while they’re there, they also get the chance to interact with the other artists and friends that we encounter on a daily basis. They consider those people their friends, just as much as the kids their age are. Last Valentines’ Day, the Artist Space, hiddenspace.co had an art exhibit that featured about 30 different artists from around Metro Manila. The

exhibit included art from Summer, Emma, and Jo. For the kids, it was just a “fun thing they did with their friends.” As a community, I think that they are treated with the same dignity and respect as adults. They are equals. They just have less experience and maturity.

Have you ruled out things from the family that other kids would usually have at this day and age?

The kids don’t have their own personal gadgets. There’s nothing wrong with those things, it’s just not our style. It’s important that they understand how technology works though, so they have a balanced exposure to electronics.

They know how to take pictures, browse albums, or find a show on our home media server.

One of the things I try to maintain is that TV time needs to be at the same time every day - a maximum of three shows, starting at 4PM. They have a schedule with a drawing of the clock next to a drawing of the computer, one of the ways that they learn to read the time. Then, we try to have them watch the same program daily, whether it’s Blue’s Clues or a documentary about superfoods. It’s a trick I learned in Malcom Gladwell’s outliers. The retention of the kids is stronger when they feel like they know illustrado go>6

FEATURE >

the answer. By the end of the week, they usually do. Summer loves to tell me all about superfoods. Sometimes, I don’t even know what they are! In addition to this, they also have Movie Night on Fridays where they get to watch stuff like “Moana.”

How would you compare yourself to the typical family? Are your family values any different?

All of us are trying to figure out who we are and who we want to be, even adults.

So what we do now is we intentionally try to pay attention to what interests them, which I think is at the core of homeschooling and unschooling successfully. And I say that because we’ve been involved in homeschooling in one way or another for over two decades – long enough to see how it can fail miserably. Don’t compare your kids to ones in other families, but just focus on what’s right for your kid. One child at a time. Identify what works for your child and spend time encouraging that personally.

For our girls right now, that’s art.

Probably because art is such a recurring theme in our lives. But that can always change and you have to be willing to pay attention to the child and move with it. It’s so important to always feel like you have access to the thing you’re passionate about.

Has unschooling brought any struggles along the journey?

Would you suggest unschooling to other parents?

It’s always a challenge. Sometimes – many times – we do feel anxious. We feel the need to make sure they progress, and there are times that we question our own ability to impart knowledge to them. But aren’t those good anxieties?

Maybe parents should always feel that way? Perhaps those feelings push us to try harder and to be more available to our kids. And it never ends. I’m already thinking 8 years down the line, where I’ll be relearning trigonometry so that I can teach it properly to Summer.

Of course! We believe in the movement, and that’s why we’re doing it for ourselves. But if you are going to homeschool or unschool, be ready for a couple of things. First, you have to be committed to it. That means being 100% hands on and not getting a tutor until you absolutely can’t handle it. But that 100% commitment isn’t to a system or concept, it’s to your child’s education, wherever or however that is achieved. If it’s not working for them or you, get help or try something else that does work.

Again, every kid is different because every person is different.

As a “victim” of the school system, I’ve noticed that higher learning and study has only been met with the end game of pursuing a job on the terms of financial and material success. Self-actualization seemed to be out of the equation. What is the goal that you and your family seek to achieve when moving into the next chapter of life?

Self-actualization and financial success aren’t mutually exclusive. Don’t focus on one over the other, rather see how they can work hand-in-hand. The goal at first is that they simply continue to be good people with a passion for discovery and never ending learning. If they have that, they’ll know how to become who they want to be. It’s not that complicated.

If more people were unschooled, how do you think the younger generations would be?

Surprisingly similar to previous generations! Haha! Seriously, I think people forget that we invented the MBA in the 1900s. Frankly, I’d like to see a generation of renaissance men. Boys and girls who study Latin “just because,” or study math just to grasp its beauty. Even take up shoe crafting simply for its own sake, and not to build a career around it.

I think it would make for a happier, more fulfilled society.

Know more about their family adventure here: http://carlosandveronica.net/

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POWER TO THE PINOY

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Towards empowering Filipinos.

Lessons Filipinos need to master to get ahead By> Lalaine Chu-Benitez

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Ninety eight percent literacy rate, English proficiency that’s praised the world over, commendable work ethics and a sunny disposition that can’t be beat – do we Pinoys need anything more to succeed in work and life?

As a matter of fact, yes. Most of the time, we are so hooked on getting diplomas and criticizing our other kababayans’ English grammar, that we miss the value of other softer skills which make a lot of difference out there. It doesn’t matter whether you are a cum laude or you speak and write flawless American English, just brains and language mastery are not enough in a world where one gets judged instantly, where being articulate and being able to promote oneself paves the way for opportunities.

So, here are some of the lessons that Pinoys need to master, to get ahead - the kind of stuff that nobody teaches you in school.

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@lalaine_chubenitez

Dress to Win

First impressions count. In fact, the first impression is all that most of us have.

According to experts, people form an opinion about you within the first seven seconds of contact. So it’s important to get a positive response because that moment will define how things are going to progress, or end right off the bat.

Naturally, people being visual beings, before you can even wow with your intellect, and endear with your warmth, you will get judged for the way you look and present yourself. Wearing jeans, a t-shirt and flip flops to a job interview?

Do this if you don’t want to get hired.

Looking fresh out of bed and unkempt while walking around the city on a weekend, risking bumping into your boss or clients – a definite no-no!

It doesn’t matter whether you are going to work, or going to the mall. Of course, dress according to the venue and the occasion, but always be well put together.

And take note, carrying an LV bag, doesn’t give you license to be shabby and inappropriate – your designer items,

will never make-up for proper attire. Not much budget for clothes? No problem.

You don’t need an entire closet of items.

Just invest on a few good classics that you can mix and match and you can’t go wrong.

Dress for the job, in fact, for the life you want. Dress well because you respect yourself.

Learn to make conversation

Even if it’s just chatting about the weather, or making a conversation out of nothing, there’s huge value in being able to talk confidently and comfortably with a stranger. Social occasions will always spring up as you climb the career ladder and get elevated in life, and there’s no fun, and certainly nothing to be gained from being a wallflower.

Go out there and meet people. But before you can gain friends, or contacts, you must first learn how to talk. But where do you actually start? A smile, a good introduction, and a warm handshake are musts. Thereafter, make

POWER TO THE PINOY

>

Towards empowering Filipinos.

small talk. Got nothing to say? Ask questions. Learn to cultivate curiosity.

People always respond warmly to interest – especially when they feel it’s genuine.

Now that you’ve broken the ice, who knows if you might end up with a new friend, or a valuable business contact?

Make friends with other nationalities

Pinoys are very cliquish. Non-Filipinos often ask why we only like to mix with our own kind, be it at lunchtime at work, during events, or our choices of venues around the country. We like to be safe, and among familiar faces and sounds, even tastes.

This time around, make a conscious effort to make friends with non-Filipinos – your colleagues, your neighbors, the people you always meet at events, etc.

Having friends from other communities will not only enrich your life, you will also find that it’s easier to get around when you have a ready smile and an open mind for everybody, instead of hesitation and shyness.

Ask for what you need and what you deserve

“Okay lang.” That’s a common answer when you ask Pinoys whether they want something or not. Is it a yes? Is it a no? Who knows? But the negative thing with the phrase “okay lang” is that we not just say it, we also live it. Most of us are happy to settle for something just to avoid having to stand-up and ask, let alone demand, what we need or what we deserve. So leave that comfort zone, kabayan. You need something? You think you deserve something? Ask for it.

It might sound cliché but there is truth in that adage – “Ask and you shall receive.”

Just one caveat though, especially at the work place, when asking for something major – like a raise, make sure that your request is warranted and well-supported.

Learn how to say ‘no’

Too nice to say no? Awww… Not very nice. Not saying no, especially to people propositioning you for things, not only gives the wrong impression, opens you to abuse, but most importantly, wastes your time, as well as the other person’s. Not interested to buy? Don’t want to attend that event or get into that project? Don’t really like those people? Just say it, but

say it nicely – “no, but thanks.” When you give people false hopes, you’re really not doing them a favor, you are, in fact, misleading them. So why not just rip that band aid off and let it sting for just one second. Be practical. Don’t waste somebody else’s time. But yes, always do so kindly.

Use social media productively

And so you think Facebook and Instagram are only meant for fun and for sharing memes? For posting those party pics where you were less than decent, or that rant where you had virtual verbal diarrhea against that other person ‘‘who really deserved it?” Think again.

Employers now look at social media profiles to help them make recruitment decisions. Contacts, clients, even potential business and life partners, will look you up online to see what kind of person you are. So when posting and deciding on your security settings, always ask, “what kind of person do I want the world to see?” Drunk, preoccupied on Facebook and IG during work hours, ranting and raving, and naked at the drop of a hat, is not the most flattering image, my friend.

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From The Publishers of Illustrado Magazine

PUBLISHER & EDITOR-IN-CHIEF LALAINE CHU-BENITEZ CREATIVE DIRECTOR MON BENITEZ COLUMNISTS ABY YAP ALFRED “KRIP” YUSON ANNA DE LEON BARNEY ALMAZAR EXCEL DYQUIANCO SPECIAL QUARTERLY EDITION FRANCISCO COLAYCO KRISTINE ABANTE CONSUL GENERAL PAUL RAYMUND CORTES TRACY LEY ORENCIO LOUISE MONIQUE SORIANO CONTRIBUTING WRITERS – UAE, PHILIPPINES, CANADA ALWEE VILLAROSA ANTONINO BENITEZ DANABELLE GUTIERREZ JOSEPH ALCANTARA KENNETH EPHRAIM SURAT MAI BAUTISTA NINA PEÑALOSA-CARPIO PAOLO BENITEZ RACHE HERNANDEZ REX VENARD BACARRA ROMAN GUEVARA ROSAN KATLEA REODICA CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS –UAE, PHILIPPINES & USA EROS GOZE RAEN BADUA IRVIN RIVERA JEF ANOG ALEX CALUENG ROZEN ANTONIO HERSON NEBAYA BETHOVEN FILOMENO CONTRIBUTING FASHION CREW - UAE, HONGKONG, PHILIPPINES GINNO ALDUCENTE JESSIE TABLA VALENTINO MONTUERTO JASMIN

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BI-WEEKLY

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ADVERTORIAL

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KEEPING UP WITH THE CONGEN > Tales from your friendly neighbourhood Philippine Consul-General.

A r e

F i l i p i n o s

too kind

t o

a

f a u l t ?

By > Consul General Paul Raymund Cortes

How kind are we in the eyes of foreigners? My colleagues in the diplomatic and consular corps are genuinely amazed when I share with them our Consulate’s programs and projects geared for the benefit of our Overseas Filipinos. How we provide for our Filipinos, to many of them at the point of spoiling them, is quite simply unthinkable and unfathomable and well, yes - unreasonable.

To many other diplomats, the Philippine Foreign Service has the best program relative to their nationals abroad, something Filipinos themselves are not aware of or even worse, think that ours pales in comparison with other diplomatic services.

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There are an estimated half a million Filipinos in the gem of the Middle East, Dubai. Compared to Dubai, however, there are not as many Filipinos in Istanbul.

In a megalopolis of 15 million souls, the Filipino populations of just around 3000 are almost invisible, inconspicuous. Just as our experience in Budapest some 20 years ago taught us, locals are genuinely amazed and pleasantly surprised when they meet Filipinos. It’s not that they have never heard of Filipinos – but as a norm, you don’t usually bump into Pinoys when in the streets of this grand imperial capital of the Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman Empires. So while gallivanting in Istiklal after a grueling day of work and

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intense discussions through PowerPoint presentations, one local approached me, attempting to strong arm me to enter a sidewalk , hole-in-the-wall eatery, and asked me where I was from and when I said the Philippines, he said: “Ah Filipino. Very nice people. Kind heart!”

But that’s not news. Fondness of the Filipinos because of our cheery disposition, our generally upbeat and positive character, is ubiquitous among almost all communities across the globe. Many are smitten by the reputed Filipino charm.

Notwithstanding, I don’t think kindness is a monopoly of the Pinoys though, maybe just more pronounced.

How kind are we in the eyes of foreigners?

My colleagues in the diplomatic and consular corps are genuinely amazed when I share with them our Consulate’s programs and projects geared for the benefit of our Overseas Filipinos. How we provide for our Filipinos, to many of them at the point of spoiling them, is quite simply unthinkable and unfathomable and well, yes - unreasonable. Many feel that their citizens must exhibit a modicum of responsibility and be at the very least mature enough to take care of themselves when in another country. I justify to them that it’s not about treating them like they cannot look after themselves but more of caring and accepting the plight of our nationals with a deeper sense of compassion. To many other diplomats, the Philippine Foreign Service has the best

KEEPING UP WITH THE CONGEN > Tales from your friendly neighbourhood Philippine Consul-General.

program relative to their nationals abroad, something Filipinos themselves are not aware of or even worse, think that ours pales in comparison with other diplomatic services.

Our reputed kindness does not end with our fellow Filipinos, though. We are seen as extremely welcoming and accommodating to foreigners. The Filipino hospitality is much bruited about and has been quite a selling point as far as our tourism is concerned. The ad with a Caucasian foreigner being called ‘anak’ or child by a local Filipino exemplifies this.

I am staring at the painting, standing very close to it, that understanding the totality of what it is that makes Filipinos reputed as kind or of a most generous heart escapes me. Social scientists posit the Filipino character in a conceptual framework that involves the psychic domain of thought and interpersonal relationships, perspectives on social acceptance, debt of gratitude and reciprocity, fate and destiny. There are

numerous and more academic reads on this but in sum, socio-cultural anthropologists pin our propensity to feel our way through how others feel as a result of our personal dealings with them. We base our actions on how it contributes to smooth interpersonal relations. If any word or deed would cause discomfort in the personal dealing between a Filipino and another individual, then Filipinos as a rule would rather not say it or would not commence any action accordingly. It then begins with reading the non-verbal cues others emit before we even act.

We prefer to not say truths as it is for fear of offending someone and often, this comes at the expense of our efficiency in terms of getting things done more effectively.

We’ve been too cautious because we don’t want to hurt and be the subject of reciprocal response. We are thus deemed kind-hearted and easier to deal with as other ethnicities do not need to care about defending their egos and selves when being around Filipinos.

If this is kind, must there be a balancing act necessary? In the words of my colleagues at the corps, being too kind opens the doors for others to abuse your generosity until there is nothing left for you to give, until the well of good deeds dries up.

Call it naiveté or gullibility but if everyone, by default, stands guard and assumes that his humanity is bound to be abused by others, then there is nothing more that brings hope and sunshine. Cheesy but true - there will always be the need to have that someone else who will take the step forward and move us towards being a better society. If not, we would remain on the very spot where we are, afraid of taking it a notch higher and forever be mired in that state of stunted humanity.

In a farfetched sense and for purposes of arousing a more spirited discussion, Filipinos’ innate kindness, gentleness, and softheartedness serve as instigators and starting points of man’s capability to become better human beings. How bad is it to want to play that role rather than regret being used and abused by other?

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OPINION

>

Racial Discrimination: Are we Filipinos victims or perpetrators?

By> Paolo Benitez

@powbenitez

As third culture kids, most of us have learned to tolerate, appreciate and integrate with various cultures. Growing up surrounded by a diverse range of people gives us a head start on the road to tolerance, as being different is the norm. Still, in these times, and even as cultural hybrids, we are not impervious to racial biases.

W

With the current global political climate, we’ve seen a lot more incidences of people acting as figures of hate and backward mentality. The presidency of Donald Trump has given the green light for anti – immigrant sentiment and intolerance, which has reverberated around the world. Hate graffiti and racial slurs have become commonplace on the internet with developments like the Charlottesville protest and racist violence in the UK post-Brexit last year, among other incidences, fanning the flames of unrest.

A few months ago, a Las Vegas woman’s racist remarks referring to her Filipino neighbor as “orange savages”, has gone viral. Even in Canada, a country known for embracing diversity, anti-Asian graffiti shocked residents in Neepawa, a town in Manitoba. Tagalog teacher Myla Ignacio, a resident of Manitoba said that they were “hurt a bit, and horrified”. On the bright side however, the community has banded together in an effort to stop the

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spread of hate speech within the area.

As third culture kids, most of us have learned to tolerate, appreciate and integrate with various cultures. Growing up surrounded by a diverse range of people gives us a head start on the road to tolerance, as being different is the norm.

Pinoys on the whole are also some of the happiest people on earth. Add to that, we’re also known for being resilient.

Unfortunately though, it is undeniable that we still often are the targets of prejudice. Some common denominators surface when we are being looked at in a negative way.

Still, in these times, and even as cultural hybrids, we are not impervious to racial biases. You can either be the attacker or victim, predator or prey, oppressor or oppressed. Based on what you have learned, what you have been taught, and what you have experienced in life, you can have a negative opinion towards someone off the bat, without any reason.

For one, Pinoys are generally associated only with the middle to low class – i.e. service workers, domestic helpers, cleaners, and easy women. Hence, in a place like the UAE which is a melting pot of cultures, “Hello mamsir, welcome to Mcdonaaaaalds!” is a pretty common joke to hear. Because Pinoys are mostly an agreeable lot, they are also often mistaken as easy to take advantage of, and as “yes men.” Another popular notion for a lot of people, is that Filipinos will settle for anything.

So how do we Pinoys fit into this?

Pinoy Stereotypes

We are particularly proud of being a diverse and globalized nation. We have 11 million Overseas Filipinos scattered all over the world while also having countless ethnic groups back home.

“Come on, show us that Filipinos don’t belong in the toilet,” Richard Paul Noveno, a Filipino university student in Dubai recalls his experience when being encouraged by non-Filipino peers.

OPINION

“You don’t wanna work at Mcdonalds?” – is one example of a joke towards Filipinos at my former international high school.

Jesus “Jan” Turla, a resident of Australia describes his job hunting experience - “I was sending out my resume for months and I didn’t get even one interview. It was only when I changed my name to Jan on my resume that I started to get attention.

Now it’s true it could just be a coincidence that I only got attention when I changed my name into a western sounding one, but I truly believe systematic racism exists where they don’t consider you just because of your name or what you look like in your LinkedIn profile picture. Sad but true.”

Being the subject of racial discrimination or stereotyping is like being thrown into an open cage and being told that we’re not allowed to go out. Prejudice isn’t good, but not doing anything about is much worse.

The Flipside: Pinoy Pride

Then there is the reverse side - Pinoy pride, which exists for a reason, and that is for us to be proud of our country and its people. We have a lot of talents, achievements, as well as love, to share with the rest of the world.

However, Pinoy Pride gets the best of us

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sometimes. We have created our own demons out of it. And sometimes, these demons work against our very own compatriots. Through all the love we uphold our country with, we have also subconsciously created a very specific image of what a Filipino is supposed to be.

As a TCK not fluent in Tagalog and who is not used to typical Pinoy practices like “mano po”, I have also been judged and made to feel inadequate by fellow Pinoys, too. While this may not exactly be on the same serious lines as racism, the lack of understanding and acceptance for Filipinos who grew up differently, also smacks bias.

In the few times that I’ve gone back to the Philippines, I have also noticed that there is a fixation with westerners or light skinned individuals. Mestizos have the upper hand versus ethnic minorities, and being fair is always equated to being rich.

Then there is the battle of the bloods, north vs. south, the Tagalogs versus the Bisayans, and how, instead of seeing ourselves us one, our people segregate themselves according to geography.

Making Sense of it All

As shocking as these are to others, what’s more concerning is the fact that these are so deeply embedded in our minds that they are considered “normal.”

It is imperative that we rise above both our stereotypes as well as our own biases for the sake of our evolution, especially with the younger generation being prone to emulating what their elders tell them.

But why the younger generations specifically? They’re the most innocent and free-spirited. But, they are also the most programmable generation to exist - millennials and generation Z. We currently live in the most pivotal age of human development, where technology has set the standard and when positive activism is needed more than ever. Jokes and memes run wild on the internet, and they can program our children to think that “certain ways of going about things” are acceptable. Let’s undo our mistakes for their sake.

While the world gets even more agitated with racial unrest, we must endeavor to push towards tolerance and understanding. Let us learn not be spiteful of our own differences as people, as human beings.

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ANGAS PINAS

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Pinoy Pride. Kabayan Yabang. Ganyan tayo eh!

GOLDEN GIRL:

BEAUTY ENTREPRENEUR :

RIZA SRIPETCHVANDEE By> Eunice Barbara C. Novio

When Gold Bar was launched at Galleria Mall on Al Wasl Road in Jumeirah, Dubai on March 14, 2016, a stunning woman walked across the room. All eyes were focused on her. Her fresh looks and gait would remind you of a model. Unfortunately, she is not but she could have been. Standing around 5’4, slim, with clear skin, straight hair and a cat-like walk, Riza Sripetchvandee, 51, a Filipina married to a Thai national is not just another beautiful woman. She is an entrepreneur, a mother, wife, daughter, and a beauty guru.

Strong women

Raised in San Jose, Occidental Mindoro, a coastal idyllic town, Riza spent much of her time aiming for academic awards.

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Instead of going out on the beach or at the municipal plaza. Riza spent much of her time with her grandmother, Caridad Rodil, than with girls her age. “I would remember my long talks with my grandmother whilst she was cooking and I was watching her.

We went for many walks together, mostly going to the cinema on foot,” Riza recalls.

At a young age, Riza was fascinated by strong women, particularly her grandmother, former British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher, and Mother Teresa of Calcutta. “My grandmother was the epitome of selflessness, grace, beauty and wisdom which had a great influence in my life. I could not remember being restricted in my actions, perhaps because then there were not much distractions that are so rampant these days. My mother did not

feature prominently in my early life. She was always there but at a distance,” Riza explains.

Riza also adds that her admiration for strong women was the reason why she took industrial engineering, a course dominated by men at that time.

“Sawasdee kha”

While attending Adamson University in Manila, Riza met her would- be husband, Sukit, a Thai national. After getting married in the Philippines the couple moved to Bangkok in 1986. In Bangkok, she took Master of Science in Computer Information Systems at Assumption University.

ANGAS PINAS

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Pinoy Pride. Kabayan Yabang. Ganyan tayo eh!

At a young age, Riza was fascinated by strong women, particularly her grandmother, former British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher, and Mother Teresa of Calcutta. “My grandmother was the epitome of selflessness, grace, beauty and wisdom which had a great influence in my life. I could not remember being restricted in my actions, perhaps because then there were not much distractions that are so rampant these days.

My mother did not feature prominently in my early life. She was always there but at a distance,” Riza explains.

Thirty-one years ago, Riza shares that she struggled in getting around because the Thais could hardly speak English.

“Life in Thailand in general is much more comfortable than in the Philippines. To start with, prices of food and general commodities are cheaper and more accessible. Salaries are higher and taxes are lower,” Riza explains.

Five years after settling in in Thailand, she was employed as an English teacher like most Filipinos. After graduate school, she worked at Standard Chartered Bank, Caltex and Shell Refineries, and Ericsson.

Discovering business acumen

“My last job in the corporate world was as a Business Development Consultant.

It gave me an opportunity to develop business models which gave me my first insight on how to establish my own business,” Riza says.

Her interest in business started when her two kids, Kristiana and Jerome, were born. In 2001, she founded Bromsgrove International School, a British Boarding School in Bangkok affiliated with Bromsgrove School in England. The school opened its doors in 2002 and now in its 15th year of operations. “I wanted to provide the best English education for Kristiana and Jerome who were then 7 and 5 years old. I have a British business partner in this. Bromgrove provides a British Curriculum education for pupils from 2-18 years old,” Riza explains.

In 2012, Riza and her husband ventured into property development and established

the The Hub Properties. The company is into condominium projects in Bangkok and Chiangmai in the north of Thailand.

the concept of making organic soaps all shaped like gold bars. “So you see, it was a gift from God’, she says.

When her daughter, Kristiana graduated from the University of Warwick in the UK, they established Gold Bar Naturals in 2014.

The company is offering organic hair and skin care solutions, and perfumes which are now distributed globally.

Gold Bar has since added perfumes in their collection after the founders obtained perfumery qualifications from the UK. “Gold Bar products are a result of what we would like to see out there in the market.

We aim to make our products accessible to more people by providing good quality aromatherapy which is equally important and at a more affordable price,” Riza explains.

Focusing on Beauty

Thailand is known for its beauty products.

Getting porcelain like skin and youthful looks obsessed many Thai women and men, often resorting to heavy chemically laden products to ensure fast results. Although there are natural and organic resources for personal care products - these are expensive.

Riza was introduced to the use of organic products by her daughter Kristiana who has had her own share of skin problems.

Having been educated in the UK from an early age up until graduating from Warwick University, Kristiana has observed the gaining popularity of using vegan, crueltyfree and chemical free products. After returning to Thailand, the mother and daughter team decided to introduce these products with the aim of making them accessible to more people.

The main products focus on anti-ageing using gold as the main ingredient. The name ‘gold bar’ came to Riza in a dream.

She dreamt she saw a large cross. As she was staring at it, flowers started flying out of the cross and filled the whole area. The flowers then turned to gold bars. Hence

A beautiful woman

“A woman must look after herself especially as she gets past the age of 40. Of course, the earlier the better. To me, a woman must look clean, well-dressed and wellmannered to look beautiful,” Riza believes.

Even during bad hair days or when looking good is a challenge, Riza has her own days too. To look good she advises everyone to have enough to eat and not over-indulge, get a good sleep every night and exercise.

Riza swims and runs to keep herself fit.

Equally important is personal hygiene – using only natural and organic products.

All these ensure ‘looking good, for good!”

Riza blieves that there is no limit to what a person can do if someone put his/her heart and mind into it. “Be happy with who you are and what you have become. Age is just a number, beat the odds. Never neglect yourself. Growing old is mandatory, looking old is optional,” Riza ends.

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FASHION

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URBAN ABBERATION PHOTOGRAPHER: IRVIN RIVERA MODEL: JENNIFER GAINES STYLIST: JENNA ENNS MAKE-UP ARTIST: PA KOU XIONG HAIRSTYLIST: NICOLE BELLOWS ASST PHOTOGRAPHERS: BEN KUI, DARWIN ABAD VIDEO: FRANCIS GUM SHOT ON LOCATION AT ENCINO CALIFORNIA FASHION: ROCKY GATHERCOLE, YEN AB, RAFAEL BRUNO / 214 DESIGNS, HAATI CHAI, JENNA ENNS, ASOS, JEFFREY CAMPBELL, ACNE, FOREVER 21, VICTORIA’S SECRET, CALVIN KLEIN, TOPSHOP AND CHINESE LAUNDRY

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FASHION

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FASHION

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FASHION

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ADVERTORIAL

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By now you’ve all must heard of Miss Wáng – the neighborhoodhotspotthatturnedMankhoolRoadinBur Dubai to Mank-Cool!

Miss Wáng is open every night of the week from 6pm to 3amandfeaturesacool-as-can-belivebandthatknows exactlyhowtobuildupthecrowd’sexcitement. Expectthe greatestsongswithanalternativetwist,that’sallthatthe band is about - happy, fun, cool and funky.

“Legacy” Resident Band Schedule: Saturday to Tuesday: 4 sets between 8pm and 12:30am Thursday & Friday: 4 sets between 9:30pm and 2am Wednesday: No live music, butsurelythe carefully-selected playlistwillkeep you up allnightlong.

To add to the funk the venue offers a cutting-edge karaoke room where guests can hit in-between courses,whilewaitingfortheirdrinksorduringtheband’sbreak.Therearenominimumspendsor extra charges, it is the perfect add-on to the experience.

Check out Miss Wáng’s fantastic offers throughout the week: Afterwork #Meetmeout

Miss Wáng Loves You

Every Night 6pm -9pm Theysaywhentheworkday is done all we want to do is have fun...

So join me for half priced selected beverages and chooseanythreedishesfor AED 99* to keep you going all night!

Saturday to Wednesday Calling all the Hoteliers in town! Let’s eat, drink and dance the night away and to top off the fun, you’ll get 50% off on selected food & beverages just because I love you...

My man is out of town

FACE Card Members

Every Sunday Hey ladies, join me for some funandlet’skickofftheweek right! I will treat you with three selected cocktails on the house and 50% off on foodandselectedbeverages.

Every Night No excuses, I better be seeing you, because you and 3 of your guests will get 50% discount on food and selected beverages!

Now how cool is that?

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ARTIST SPOTLIGHT

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Celebrating Filipino artistry, passion, and cleverness.

JUN CAMBEL Visual Artist

flexible work schedule while allowing him to devote more time to developing his own language as a painter. He taught Graphic Design and Visual Arts Communication at the Caritas College of Careers HK in 201011. He is currently Production and Design Editor at (SCMP) South China Morning Post.

Contemporary artist Jun Cambel grew up in the heart of the city, Manila. He views art as a tool to raise people’s environmental awareness. He often applies mixtures of paints and industrial materials to create multiple layers with pronounced textures.

He sometimes combines found objects and realistic renderings to give the canvas an extra dimension.

As global climate change becomes more serious, Jun thinks that he has an obligation to express his views on the issue of environmental protection. Through his art, he lifts the veil of familiarity from commonplace objects and scenes – a leaf, a crumpled newspaper, an overflowing ashtray – and transforms them into potent symbols of our age. Far from harboring didactic intentions, however, Jun says he paints because he enjoys it. His works tend to make us reminisce about yesterday, while he also likes to show current situations and portray possible future scenarios.

Jun worked for Hong Kong Tatler as Art Director from 1993 to 2007. He runs and is Creative Director of his own design studio, ArTELIER Design Studio, which gives him a illustrado go>24

Jun’s talent was evident at an early age and he won several drawing contests as a primary school student. His promise blossomed during his high-school years and he decided to pursue fine arts at Manila’s FEATI University while majoring in advertising. He supported his studies by working at his brother’s graphic design studio (Bal Cambel/Grafik Asia) as a Graphic Artist for movie production companies. He attended classes under Ibarra dela Rosa, a Filipino painter renowned for his pointillism.

After university, Jun joined an advertising agency as a Visualiser, and was later promoted to Associate Art Director and Senior Graphic Designer at a design studio and advertising agency. He came to Hong Kong in 1993.

After years of focusing on graphic design, in May 2005 he decided to participate in the “Contemporary Filipino Artist Exhibition” – a group show at Hong Kong’s City Hall in Central. Inspired by the positive feedback he received about his work, he embarked on his first solo exhibition, “1st Expression”, at Asia Fineart Gallery in November 2005.

Past Exhibitions: • 2016 - You’re Nothing but an Overrated Trying-hard Hong Kong Art Rat: Group Exhibition, Art Galileia, Serendra, Manila • 2015 - Junk Shop: Arte Pintura Group Exhibition, Art Center, Manila • 2015 - Metaphor & Parody: Group Exhibition, Baguio Museum • 2014 - The Best of the Philippines: Group Exhibition, Marco Polo Prince Hotel • 2014 - Meditation & Megrim: Group Exhibition, The Popsy Room

• 2014 - Pintura Circle charity auction for Tacloban typhoon victims: Group Exhibition, Hong Kong Centre for Visual Arts • 2011 - HARAYA 3: Group exhibition, Central Library, Hong Kong • 2011 - WHY NOT WHAT’S NOT: Two-man Exhibition, Hong Kong Visual Arts Center • 2010 - HARAYA 2: Group exhibition, Main Gallery, Hong Kong Cultural Centre • 2009 - Detour 2009 Live Mural Painting: A Haraya group exhibition, Main Gallery, Anchor Site Main Courtyard • 2009 - HARAYA (Imagination): A group show by Filipino artists based in Hong Kong, Hong Kong Visual Arts Center • 2009 - Kulay, Kultura, Kalawili: Group exhibition, Main Gallery, Hong Kong Cultural Centre • 2008 - Awakenings: Group exhibition, OC Gallery, Olympian City • 2008 - Take Five: A group show by Filipino artists based in Hong Kong, Asia Fineart Gallery, Hong Kong 3rd Philippine Arts Festival • 2007 - Estilo, A Group Exhibition of Filipino Artists in Hong Kong: Philippine Consulate General in Hong Kong exhibition area, Hong Kong • 2007 - Drawings On Square: A group show by Filipino artists based in Hong Kong, Fringe Club, Hong Kong • 2006 - A Group Exhibition of Filipino Artists in Hong Kong: Philippine Consulate General in Hong Kong exhibition area, Hong Kong • 2006 - Unang Sulyap (First Glimpse): A Survey of Philippine Art Works in Hong Kong: A grand exhibition of Filipino artworks. Central Library, Hong Kong Seminar/Workshop 2010 - Mix Media Art and the Fun of Doing It, Hong Kong Museum of Art, presented by LCSD and HKMOA Association/Membership Member, HARAYA Group of Hong Kongbased Filipino Artists

ARTIST SPOTLIGHT

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Far from harboring didactic intentions, however, Jun says he paints because he enjoys it. His works tend to make us reminisce about yesterday, while he also likes to show current situations and portray possible future scenarios.

> Jun Cambel > jscambel@artelier.com.hk > : (852) 9354 0458

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MY PINOY LIFE IN > Living the dream, loving the world, learning new things everyday

My PINOY LIFE in

By> Robert Monico A. Gualberto Jr.

Darling Harbor

Can you briefly recount briefly why you moved there?

I arrived here in October 2011. The primary reason I moved to Sydney was to study Culinary Arts at Le Cordon Bleu (LCB). I chose Australia because it has the only branch of LCB that offers industry placement, which is similar to what they call in the Philippines as OJT or on-the-jobtraining. Once we are finished, we will be LCB graduates, who are renowned globally.

We will also be recognized as Australian Qualified chefs.

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Tell us something about Sydney.

Sydney is just like any other metropolitan city. Big, crowded, busy and fast-paced.

So if you are used to that kind of place, then you will definitely love Sydney. There are a lot of places to visit here such as the Sydney Aquarium, the Taronga Zoo, the Blue Mountains and the Three Sisters, the Sydney Opera House, Bondi Beach, Manly Beach, Harbour Bridge, Royal Botanical Gardens, Hunter Valley, Darling Harbour and many more. Furthermore, if you want to party, Sydney, from what I’ve heard, is the best place here in Australia. On the other hand, if you want a more quiet life, Sydney has its suburbs that you may also want to

MY PINOY LIFE IN > Living the dream, loving the world, learning new things everyday

Sydney Tower

explore.

Sydney is also very multicultural so you’ll see different races. Actually, I find Sydney dominated by Oriental people. When I arrived here, I thought I was in Singapore, China or Taiwan because there are so many Asians.

Just like every big city in first world countries, Sydney’s infrastructure is so impressive. I can’t complain about the railways, roads, freeways, toll, etc.

Everything seems perfect.

There’s only one thing, though, that I didn’t like about Sydney. Since it is a very big

city, moving around is quite challenging especially for commuters like me. A car is certainly a necessity. The buses here have schedules so if I miss my bus then I have to wait for 30 minutes to an hour for the next one. Although trains here are amazing, I still have to catch a bus to get to the nearest station near my place. Not to mention, bus tickets are not cheap at all. Sydney is also considered as one of the most expensive cities in the world.

What do you do for a living?

I am a full time Pastry student in Le Cordon Bleu, and I’m currently working as a Commis Chef in two different hotels owned

by one company. As a student, I am only allowed to work 40 hours every two weeks while still in school. But I can work for unlimited hours during school holidays and during my industry placement.

Is there a Filipino community there?

Yes, there is. When I stayed with my relatives, they brought me to some Filipino gatherings or parties. I also met groups like church choirs and dance groups like back home. I met a group of Filipinos once when I played badminton in Sydney Olympic Park. They invited me every time they played but due to my busy schedule I illustrado go>27

MY PINOY LIFE IN >

Sydney Opera House

have not been able to play with them again.

I heard there was also a Filipino festival held last year wherein Filipino celebrities performed, but I was still new here that time.

Tell us about your life there When I first arrived I was like a “probinsyano” coming to a big city. I was checking the big buildings and appreciating the infrastructure. Without even noticing it, I was already at my homestay and my Australian host mother greeted me. She was lovely and so was her house. I lived in that house with my host mom and her family for one month. She let me work in her café as a kitchen assistant, which then eventually helped me get experience and job offers afterwards.

St. Mary’s Cathedral

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I started with Basic Cuisine and they taught us the fundamentals about meats, vegetables, stocks, sauces, and fish. Now, I am studying Intermediate Patissiere and love being a Pastry Chef. I have shifted from being a Cuisine Chef because I believe that I work well as a Pastry Chef. My passion for cooking was intensified by this part of the culinary world. It never fails to put a smile on my face when I share the pastries I make in school with my friends and housemates

and they all greet it with, “Woooohs” and then “MMMmmmmms” when they start eating it.

What cultural practices/behaviors have you acquired from your host country?

In terms of cultural practices, there are a few small things like eating pies with tomato sauce, walking a lot because they don’t have tricycles here, leaving the house early and being at the bus stop 5-10 minutes before the bus arrives. I’ve also learned to speak the Australian way, pronouncing tomato as “to-mah-to”, asking “how you doing?” or “how you goin’?” instead of the usual “how are you?”.

Australian culture, I think, is all about having fun. I’ve always wanted to go surfing in Bondi Beach or Manly Beach but there were numerous shark alarms. My friends have invited me to go skydiving but I am too much of a wuss. Whenever we hang out, I always try different Aussie beers as they have such a wide variety. Australia is also considered as one of the top 10 wine producing countries in the world so I have also started to appreciate wine here. I was never really a wine drinker back home, because I was more of a rum, brandy, or whisky kind of guy.

MY PINOY LIFE IN > Living the dream, loving the world, learning new things everyday

Your messge to Filipino across the globe As wonderful as it seems, living in another country can be really hard at the beginning. You will miss everything about home. It doesn’t mean that you’ll be miserable or unhappy but you will be aware of what it is like being on your own. You will miss the good life you left behind and start to do things you have never done before. You have to be more open-minded about other societies and cultures and their different points of view. Sometimes it will change or break your principles, but the best thing to do about it is to keep your most important values and traditions and change those that you think can be improved on.

Give it time and you will eventually get used to your life and start enjoying being independent. You will then develop a sense of responsibility because you have no one to depend on. All you really have is yourself. It is not at all easy, but these changes are necessary to make us stronger and better individuals.

But, at the end of it all, there’s really no place like home.

Saludo ako sa mga Pilipinong nakikipagsapalaran sa ibang bansa. Mabuhay po kayong lahat!

Bondi Beach

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ILLUSTRADO EATS

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This new restaurant just made Sushi even better By > Kier Pascual

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On the hunt for a new restaurant to try? A new sushi joint with an Emirati twist just opened in Abu Dhabi, and is set to take your taste buds through a flavor experience beyond the usual!

In an effort to create a great blend of East and West, the founders of Sushina, Ahmed Al Hamed and Mansoor Alhosani, traveled the world to explore different cuisines and discover unusual ingredients. But no matter how far and wide they travelled, sushi remained a firm favourite. With their shared love for food, the two created a place where Japanese cuisine can co-exist with the traditional Emirati flavors they’ve grown up with.

Going into Sushina makes you feel like you’re entering a quaint sushi joint somewhere in Tokyo. You are welcomed by modern Japanese elements and beautiful Arabic graffiti wall art. The place is very cozy and has enough space for friends and family. It could also be a great place for an intimate date. There’s even a private space where you can invite your colleagues or friends for a lunch meeting or a small celebration.

A huge sushi platter was set inside the restaurant for the guests to try.

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The variety of sushi served was quite unique with unexpected Arabian spices and flavors, which turned out to be a delightful food experience. Usually, sushi is served with raw fish but Sushina also has a good variety of cooked sushi options so there will always be something for everyone to enjoy. Don’t be surprised if you find shrimp prepared, grilled and seasoned the Arabic way, or small pieces of Arab ingredients and dishes added in your sushi. It’s totally unheard of, but Sushina has executed it deliciously well. You would definitely notice that each piece of sushi served was carefully crafted and well thought of, as the flavors were impeccably balanced and did not go over-the-top.

The menu is quite simple and straightforward but has enough dishes for you to enjoy.

The Chicken Gyoza is highly recommended as a great starter dish.

The scrumptious dumpling in wonton wrappers was filled with cabbage, carrot, mint, lime juice and sesame oil, and seasoned with cumin. The dish is steamed and grilled a little bit to create a thin crisp layer for that satisfying bite and texture.

If you are craving for something grilled,

@locloset

look for the Sea Bream Yaki. This fish is called “madai” in Japan and is commonly served during special occasions such as New Year’s and weddings. This skewered dish is grilled perfectly with the right amount of saltiness, which goes well together with thinly sliced crispy potatoes.

Do not leave the restaurant without trying Sushina’s Tempura Vanilla Ice Cream for dessert. This amazing confection is made of vanilla ice cream covered with tempura batter, deep-fried and served drizzled with chocolate syrup and fresh strawberry jam. Breaking the ball in half and seeing the ice cream slowly trickling out is a delightfully sinful experience. Mixing it all together with the sauce and letting all the flavors explode in your mouth is even more amazing!

Sushina, successfully gave us a fantastic teaser and really made something sort of impossible, possible. With its creative take on food, plus the place’s lovely ambience, we can’t wait to come back for a further taste of Japanese-Emirati flavor fusion!

Sushina is located in The Mall, World Trade Center Abu Dhabi Food Court Open daily from 10AM to 10PM Visit www.sushiname.com to learn more.

ILLUSTRADO STUFF >

LE LABO - SANTAL 33

Here’s a list of the things that we saw, we tried, we liked and loved! Get a load of these interesting, very Illustrado sundry.

Can’t live without ‘em!

A perfume that touches the sensual universality that would appeal to a man and a woman. This bottle has a very interesting blend with notes of pepper, gaiac, labdanum, cedar, and an incense called olibanum. Here is, in a few words, what SANTAL 33 is: an open fire, the soft drift of smoke where sensuality rises after the light has gone.

THE ONE - AROMAGIC SCENTED CANDLE

Burn tobacco inside without breaking the law or setting off fire alarms? This must’ve been what the sixties were like!

The added sandalwood compliments tames the tobacco to ensure you won’t emerge from your room smelling like a cuban humidor. Get that earthy smell in your house with this scented candle from Aromagic.

DUBAI GARDEN CENTER

SWITCH RESTAURANT

L’OCCITANE PILLOW MIST

Looking for a relaxing place to spend the weekend in Dubai? Go visit Dubai Garden Center near the FGB Metro Station. Purchase a plant for your flat to give it a little more life or if you don’t have a place for it, you can just walk around and enjoy the greens and bloom of this place. You can also sit in Roseleaf cafe and read a book or meet people!

It is the end that people remember the most, that’s why dessert is important. It’s that last bit of sweet. When a city offers 101 desert options, taking your pick can be rather overwhelming. Let us narrow it down for you: SWITCH RESTAURANT. If something is supposed to make you gain more weight, it has to be worth it! Do we need to say more?

Feeling uneasy and having a hard time to sleep? Keep calm and relax with L’Occitane! Featuring a 100% natural scent, this mist can be sprayed in your bedroom to create a calming atmosphere that promotes relaxation and well-being.

You’ll never wanna leave your room with this!

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ILLUSTRAGRAMMERS

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A roundup of the Instagrammers we love

Itching to book a ticket somewhere but don’t know exactly where to go?

Here are some photos from our favorite travelers that can help unleash the wanderlust in you.

When it comes to vacations and trips, this rule applies: “If it’s not on social media, it didn’t happen.” You’re going to be taking pictures of the places and yourself, so of course, the framing has to be good. And if you’re putting the images online, they better be IG-worthy!

< Hannah Magsayo @hannahmagsayo

Great Pyramid of Giza, Eygpt

Brussels, Belgium

Mogador, Morocco

Train in Moscow Russia

ILLUSTRAGRAMMERS

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A roundup of the Instagrammers we love

Gangchon Rail Park, Korea

Khumbu Glacier, Nepal

< Benj Ramos @benjlramos

Fjaðrárgljúfur, Iceland

Machu Picchu, Peru

Causin, Kapadokya

Rio, Brazil

Procida, Italy Nairobi, Kenya

< Gelo Santos @iamdocgelo

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ANNIE B CHRONICLES

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T h e ad v e n tur e s a n d mi s ad v e n tu re s o f a ‘ n o t s o a ve ra g e ’ P in a y tr y i n g to ma ke i t i n th e c o s m o po lita n c ity o f Du b a i

When It Rains It’s Flood!

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One thing na miss na miss ko na when I moved here sa Dubai is the rain. Sure it rains not once, but twice, even thrice a year here in the Middle East but it’s nothing like what we experience back home. Growing up in the province, the rain brought good luck to us – it’s a blessing in the sky – sureball na masagana ang ani and business in the farming industry will be fruitful. Winner!

I love the rain. It is so much fond and romantic at the same time. I remember taking a bath in the rain with my siblings and our pet askal dogs, Bulak and Putik. Priceless! I also love it when it starts raining in school, I would hide my umbrella so that I can make sukob to my crush’s payong – pang-Close Up moment di ba? Tsaka fresh na fresh ang dating ko sa mga boys with my wet look. Nakatipid na ako sa tubig without taking shower, nakapag-pa-cute pa ako. Kaya lang when it floods medyo tragic na. Like there was this time na binaha ang campus namin in Manila – I had to cross the street habang nakasakay sa styrofoam – eh biglang nag cupsize – award! Magastos din – kasi

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every time you have to cross the baha, you have to pay PHP5 to be able to use the instant bridge (made out of a dos por dos). Yung iba talaga ginagawa pang negosyo ang baha. Kainez! On the brighter side of the coin, walang pasok sa school kapag malakas ang bagyo at baha - kaya happy lahat ng estudyante sa U-belt area.

Every time I miss the rain lalo na pag panahon ng tag-ulan, di na rin maiiwasan maalala yung experience back then with typhoon Ondoy - the most devastating disaster to hit our country – eh I was completely, totally, absolutely devastation.

Grabeh! I was so shocked when I saw all the pictures and videos in Fezbook.

A lot of people – rich and poor, old and young, boy, girl, bakla, tomboy – became victims because of the continuous rains and floods. Grabeh! Even the cars were not spared – most of the people lost all of their belongings. Kawawa naman. Eto na yata yung tinatawag na Global Warning.

You know naman nature kung magbiro.

But jokes are half meant, sabi nga ng guidance cancellor ko noon. This is no joke. I told myself. Because they really meant it. Grabeh!

I was so worried for my family and friends back home. OH-EM-GEE!!! Nagpanic talaga ako kasi sa kaka-Fezbuk ko bigla ko naalala na taga Luzon nga pala ako and most of my friends are in Metro Manila. I tried calling them then so many times pero puro Network Error – kakapraning! I kept imagining kung ano na ang situation sa amin sa Bataan. Baka binaha na din kami at inanod yung mga gown kong pang-Santacruzan – saying naman yun! All of a suddenly, I kept seeing bad things in my mind. What if inabutan ng baha si Nanay habang nagma-majong sa kapitbahay? Pano kung nabasa at na-damaged lahat ng mga furniture and appliances na naipundar ko over the years? Pano kung pati yung latest Kenstar 40-inch Plasma TV na pinadala ko before the typhoon eh tinangay din ng baha?

Hindi pa bayad yun sa credit card!!! Pano na ang mga pamangkin ko, saan na sila manonood ng Rosalinda nyan? Naku, I was so worried…

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